Turks and Caicos, June 25, 2024 – The Ministry of Health and Human Services announces an increase in cases of acute respiratory infections (ARIs) across the islands. This spike, observed over the past month, has prompted immediate public health actions and awareness campaigns to curb the spread and ensure public safety. Since June, health facilities in Turks and Caicos have reported a rise in ARI cases.

Acute respiratory infections are typically caused by viruses but can also be bacterial in origin. Symptoms commonly observed include:

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Runny nose or stuffy nose
• Headache
• Muscle ache

ARIs are primarily spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Close contact with infected individuals or touching contaminated surfaces can also facilitate transmission. Although most individuals recover from these symptoms within a week without medical intervention, severe illness or fatalities can occur, especially among vulnerable groups such as the very young, elderly, pregnant women, health workers, and those with underlying medical conditions. It is important to remain vigilant for early detection of severe disease and present to your healthcare provider.

The Ministry of Health urges all residents and visitors to adhere to the following guidelines to protect themselves and others:

1. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw used tissues in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
2. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitiser when soap and water are not available. Learn and use proper handwashing technique. Teach children the correct way to wash their hands. Clean frequently touched surfaces, such as countertops, handrails, and doorknobs regularly. Refrain from touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, as germs often spread when hands come into contact with contaminated surfaces and then touch the face.

1. Wear Masks: Use face masks in crowded places and when interacting with vulnerable populations.

1. Avoid Close Contact: Maintain physical distancing and avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms of respiratory illness.

1. Stay Home– If you or your child is experiencing flu-like symptoms, stay home from work, school, and daycare to prevent spreading the illness to others. Prioritise ample rest, hydration, nutritious eating, stress management, and physical activity to support overall well-being.

1. Stay Informed: Follow updates from the Ministry of Health and heed public health advisories.

The Ministry of Health is working diligently to address the increase in acute respiratory infections and ensure the well-being of all residents and visitors in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Cooperation from the public is crucial in controlling the spread of these infections.

The Ministry is encouraging vaccination against influenza and other respiratory infections, especially for vulnerable groups such as young children and the elderly. Residents are encouraged to proactively seek the vaccines, which are provided free of charge at Primary Healthcare Clinics across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

For additional information, please visit the Turks and Caicos Islands Ministry of Health and Human Services Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.

World Food Safety Day 2024

Foodborne diseases (FBDs) remain a public health concern in the Caribbean and across the world, with one in 10 people worldwide falling ill from contaminated food each year^[1]. Increasing numbers of FBD cases and outbreaks have been reported across CARPHA Members States (CMS), especially in the tourism and cruise ship industry.  FBDs can cause morbidity, mortality, and economic burden of countries; it can also pose significant economic, social, and reputational impact on trade and tourism.

The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) joins the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the World Health Organization (WHO) to commemorate World Food Safety Day on June 7^th.  The theme for 2024 “Food safety: prepare for the unexpected” reiterates that food safety is a collective responsibility, and everyone needs to play their part.  

 At all levels, we must be prepared to intervene if food safety is compromised, such as:

• Governments can update national food safety emergency response plans, strengthen national food control systems, increase surveillance and coordination capacities, and improve communication.
• Food businesses can improve food safety management plans, collaborate, and share lessons learnt and improve communication with consumers.
• Consumers can ensure they know how to report or respond to a food safety incident.

Dr. Lisa Indar, Director, Surveillance, Disease Prevention and Control Division at CARPHA stated that “Food safety is crucial for supporting economic productivity in the tourism dependent, vastly culinary diverse Caribbean region.   CARPHA is contributing to regional food security through improving food borne diseases surveillance and food safety in its 26 Member States.”

In a 2021 WHO study, the incidence of FBD was 1 in 11 during the mass gathering events, such as cricket matches, carnival, food festivals, etc.^[2] With this in mind and as the Caribbean is hosting the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup (May/June 2024), CARPHA continues to be proactive and lead the regional public health response.  The Agency has collaborated with both health and tourism stakeholders of the six Caribbean Cricket World Cup (CWC) host nations (Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago) to strengthen surveillance, early warning and response, laboratory, health, prevention and control and food safety capacity in preparation for CWC and other mass gathering events.

During this preparatory phase from February to May 2024, almost 900 food vendors likely to be selling food at the cricket stadiums/and its environs, were trained in Food Safety for Food Handlers for Mass Gathering Events. Additionally, a Mass Gathering Surveillance System was developed and implemented to capture the six internationally recognised potential syndromes, which includes gastroenteritis.

To adequately address FBD and food safety in the Caribbean, CARPHA is implementing an integrated foodborne diseases program, integrating the epidemiological, laboratory, environmental and veterinary aspects of FBD surveillance and response, into a coordinated programmatic approach, regionally and nationally. Its components of surveillance, training, capacity building, outbreak investigation, research, preparation and control, are addressing FBD in a wholistic manner to promote food safety in the Region. CARPHA has also trained and certified over 500 persons in nine of its Member States in advanced food safety and has developed a suite of hospitality, health, food safety and environmental standards, to provide a basis for the development of an effective food safety program for the hospitality industry.

CARPHA remains committed to working with partners and Member States to strengthen regional food safety through multi-sectoral collaboration, capacity building activities, exchange of information and communication.

#TurksandCaicos, June 8, 2024 – As International Men’s Health Week (IMHW) 2024 approaches, communities and organisations around the world are preparing to raise awareness about the unique health challenges men face and promote proactive approaches to maintaining and improving men’s health. This annual event, taking place from 10 June to 16 June, aims to encourage men and boys to prioritise their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

The theme for IMHW 2024 is “Stronger Together”, emphasising the importance of community, support networks, and collective action in enhancing men’s health outcomes. By fostering connections and encouraging open conversations about health issues, we can create a supportive environment where men feel empowered to seek help and make healthier choices.

Key Areas of Focus Include:

1. Mental Health:Addressing the stigma around mental health and encouraging men to seek support for issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress.
2. 2. Physical Health:Promoting regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine medical check-ups to prevent and manage conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
3. Preventive Care:Highlighting the importance of early detection and prevention strategies, including screenings and vaccinations.
4. Healthy Relationships:Encouraging men to build and maintain healthy relationships is crucial for emotional and psychological well-being.
5. Work-Life Balance:Advocating for policies and practices that support work-life balance and reduce stress and burnout.

Events and Activities:

Throughout the month, the Ministry of Health and Human will be hosting a series of activities.

1. June 14: Smart Parking lot, Providenciales- ‘Check your Numbers, know your Status’– this campaign encourages individuals to routinely check key health metrics such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels to monitor their risk for chronic conditions.  The campaign aims to empower individuals to take proactive steps toward early detection and prevention of serious health issues.
2. June 15: Governor’s Beach Grand Turk- ‘Men in the Galley’ – an engaging event where men showcase their culinary skills by preparing healthy and creative dishes. Aimed at promoting better nutritional habits, the competition highlights the importance of cooking at home and the role of diet in maintaining overall well-being. This activity includes physical fitness challenges and health status checks.
3. June 17: Health Matters Radio Program– RTC Monday 10 am: Colon Cancer in Men.
4. June 24: Health Matters Radio Program– RTC Monday 10 am: Kidney Disease in Men.

The Minister of Health and Human Services, Honorable Shaun D. Malcolm, commented, “International Men’s Health Week is a crucial time for us to come together and address the specific health needs of men. By working together, we can create a healthier future for men and boys everywhere. Men’s health is not just a personal issue; it’s a community issue. When men are healthy, families and communities thrive. Encourage the men in your life to prioritise their health and seek help when needed.”

For additional information please visit the Ministry of Health and Human Services Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.